HOW TO READ AN EMPANADA - IT’S ALL IN THE SHAPE.

Here's a party trick: order several different empanadas all mixed together on the same plate. Then look at each one and tell your friends what's inside. They'll think you possess some sort of extrasensory perception. Really, you just know how to read an empanada.

Use this handy guide to impress your friends the next time you're out. Serving empanadas for a dinner party? You can make the dough yourself or buy the pre-made discs at the store.

Carne: This is the classic shape. Place the meat filling in the center of the disc and fold in half. Seal the edges, then fold them over themselves as you move along the seam to create a braid-like pattern.

Pollo: Just as with the carne empanada, fold the dough in half over the chicken filling and seal the edges. Using the tines of a fork, press along the edges in several places to make a pattern.

Jamón y queso: This one is reminiscent of a tortellini shape. Fold the disc in half around the ham and cheese filling and seal the edges. Now take each end and wrap them around (going behind) so that they meet.

Puerro: This leek empanada is similar to the jamón y queso. You'll fold the dough in half and seal the edges. Now bring the edges together, but this time instead of going behind, pull them down gently then press together. The shape will be similar to a circle with a little space at the bottom.

The more you practice, the better you'll become - then you can explore more fillings and their signature designs. You'll be in good shape, forming beautiful empanadas in no time!